The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has notified election officials in all 50 states and the District of Columbia that they must comply with federal laws designed to prevent noncitizens from remaining on voter rolls or voting in federal elections.
The letters, sent by the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, request that states explain how they are complying with federal requirements and give election officials five days to respond. The move comes as the Trump administration continues to emphasize election integrity and support legislation requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration.
DOJ Letters
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon sent the letters to state election officials, stating that federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting in federal elections.
The letters warn that election officials who knowingly allow noncitizens to remain on state voter registration lists or facilitate the casting of ballots by noncitizens could face potential criminal liability under federal law.
Dhillon also noted that coordinating actions that deprive Americans of their constitutional rights may constitute a federal crime.
The DOJ encouraged state officials to work with the department to ensure voter registration lists comply with federal legal requirements.
Federal Response
A Department of Justice spokesperson said the letters were sent to every state and the District of Columbia to seek voluntary compliance with federal election laws.
According to the department, the goal is to ensure that only U.S. citizens are eligible to vote in federal elections and that states maintain accurate voter registration records.
SAVE America Act
The DOJ’s action comes as President Donald Trump continues to advocate for the SAVE America Act, legislation that would require individuals to provide proof of U.S. citizenship in person when registering to vote.
Trump has said he wants the Senate to pass the measure as part of his administration’s broader election integrity agenda.
Supporters of the proposal argue it would strengthen safeguards against ineligible voting, while critics have raised concerns about how proof-of-citizenship requirements could affect voter registration.
Arizona Response
Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes rejected the suggestion that Arizona election officials are failing to enforce voter eligibility laws.
In a statement, Fontes said Arizona officials have consistently worked to ensure that only eligible citizens are registered to vote and that election offices across the state follow Arizona law.
He also criticized what he described as suggestions that county election officials are not properly performing their responsibilities.
Ongoing Debate
Questions surrounding voter registration procedures and election security have remained a focus of national debate in recent years.
Federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting in federal elections, while states are responsible for maintaining voter registration lists in accordance with both state and federal law.
The Justice Department’s request for information marks the latest development in ongoing discussions between federal and state officials over election administration and voter eligibility requirements.
FAQs
What did the DOJ send to states?
Letters requesting compliance with federal voter laws.
How long do states have to respond?
The DOJ requested responses within five days.
What is the SAVE America Act?
A proposal requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote.
What was Arizona’s response?
State officials said Arizona already follows election laws.
Can noncitizens vote in federal elections?
Federal law prohibits noncitizens from voting.
